Olivia Rodrigo debuted her holiday music career on Nov. 5, with her new single “take me home (4 christmas).”  

The track has a fun and nostalgic melody, while Rodrigo sings about how she wants to be brought home to her partner’s family for the holidays. The chorus features the lyrics “I want you to take me home/ And not so we can make out/ I want you to take me home/ Take me home to your parents’ house/ I want you to take me home/ Show me serious commitment.” 

The song is anecdotal and genuine, which comes as no surprise to Olivia Rodrigo fans. She tells a story about how she wants to spend time with her partner’s parents, have brunch with her partner’s sister, and even says between the bridge, “I’ll trim the tree and bake the yule … As long as your grandma thinks I’m cool.” 

While the song may not be Rodrigo’s most raw or deeply emotional song, I think it’s a cute interpretation of what a lot of people want from their partner during the holidays. 

The accompanying music video features Rodrigo, SNL cast member Ben Marshall, and “Sex and the City” star Cynthia Nixon. The video is filmed in a retro Christmas film way, where Ben Marshall takes Rodrigo home to meet his mother (played by Cynthia Nixon) and the rest of his family. They do traditional Christmas-related activities, including chopping firewood, wrapping presents, playing charades, decorating gingerbread houses and even let his younger sister do Rodrigo’s makeup. The short film accompanies the song well, embodying the whimsical and lighthearted feel of the song.  

With this release, Olivia Rodrigo joins the many pop stars who have released original holiday songs. She joins the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Laufey, Sia, and many others. While some expect covers of traditional Christmas songs, an original holiday-themed song can be more relatable for people and creates a new sound for the holiday season.  

Whether you are a firm believer in “no Christmas music until after Thanksgiving” or someone who plays Mariah Carey at midnight on November first, Olivia Rodrigo’s “take me home (4 christmas)” brings a little joy and whimsy to the holidays, and her music video is perfect for anyone who enjoys a Christmas rom-com or even a cheesy Hallmark movie.